Stolen truck 'stripped' and 'damaged' before it was found

Thames Valley Police's neighbourhood team for Didcot and Wallingford said they have recovered a stolen red tipper truck that was taken from Berinsfield overnight on Monday.

However, the officers discovered 'significant damage' to the vehicle, as the thieves had removed half the tyres and stripped the entire front end and engine of the truck.

The red tipper truck was stripped for parts by thieves before it was found by police (Image: Thames Valley Police)

A spokesperson for the police said: "This incident serves as a reminder of the impact that vehicle crime can have on victims and local businesses.

"We are also aware of a number of reports of vehicles being targeted or tried in the area during the same night.

"We would like to encourage residents to remain vigilant and take a few moments to review their vehicle and home security.

"If you see suspicious activity, individuals checking vehicles, or vehicles acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, please report it to Thames Valley Police."

Earlier, officers had released a statement explaining that 'multiple reports of other vehicles being tried' had come in overnight on Monday, October 19, between 5pm and 7am the next morning.

These took place around Fane Drive and Cherwell Road in Berinsfield, police said.

Police advice to prevent vehicle theft includes locking vehicles, even when they're parked on driveways, keep keys out of site and away from doors and windows, remove valuables from vehicles where possible, check that garages and outbuildings are secure and review any CCTV or doorbell footage if something suspicious occurs.